Andrew Beckett, a gay lawyer living with AIDS, finds himself dismissed from his law firm under false pretenses. Determined not to accept this injustice, he secures the assistance of Joe Miller, a lawyer harboring prejudices, in an attempt to demonstrate the firm’s discriminatory actions driven by fear of Andrew's illness. The story follows their struggle as Andrew’s health deteriorates while confronting these challenges. Philadelphia is recognized for its significant role in raising public awareness about the AIDS crisis. While earlier films like "An Early Frost" and "As Is" addressed the subject, Philadelphia remains the most widely remembered mainstream film to do so. Over time, the film's reputation has diminished somewhat; some within the gay community have criticized it as overly sentimental, while other critics question its intentions. Ultimately, Philadelphia’s fault lies in its cautious approach. Andrew Beckett is undeniably wronged and portrayed as a kind and exceptional man with a supportive family. This characterization prevents the film from taking significant risks or exploring controversial themes, even regarding homophobia, which is only briefly acknowledged. However, the filmmakers succeed in evoking strong emotions, elevating Philadelphia above many other emotionally impactful films. The tone of the movie is established by Bruce Springsteen’s Oscar-winning song "Streets Of Philadelphia," creating a somber atmosphere from the opening credits. The narrative then focuses on tugging at heartstrings and dismantling prejudice through fairness and acknowledging human imperfections. Combining elements of courtroom drama and human tragedy, Philadelphia remains consistently engaging thanks to the strong performances of the entire cast. Tom Hanks delivers one of his finest performances of the 1990s, earning his first Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of Andrew Beckett. He portrays Andrew’s physical and emotional decline with remarkable depth, drawing audiences into his suffering. Denzel Washington, as Joe, also excels in a challenging role, showcasing his acting abilities through his character's evolving strength. The supporting cast, including Jason Robards, Joanne Woodward, Robert Ridgely, Mary Steenburgen, and Antonio Banderas, all deliver commendable performances. Just as Springsteen’s song set the initial mood, Neil Young’s “Philadelphia” concludes the film with poignant music accompanied by video footage that clarifies the movie's purpose. Repeated viewings reveal minor shortcomings, but for those who remember the audience reaction when it was first released in 1993, the impact of Philadelphia remains considerable. It earns a rating of 9/10.

Source on TMDB